Ashforth confirmed as new Ossett Town Manager

Ossett Town chairman, James Rogers, is backing Lee Ashforth to bring stability to the EVO-STIK League club after naming the former Harrogate Railway boss as the successor to Grant Black.

Ashforth will take charge of the Reds for the first time at Bamber Bridge in EVO-STIK League North on Saturday after initially taking over as caretaker manager following Black's departure last week after 16 months at the helm.

Rogers told the club's supporters that experienced and well-travelled coach Ashforth was best placed to provide the leadership the team required to get them back on track.

The Reds chairman said: “Having spoken at length to Lee, as well as the existing squad, it is important for all of us that we retain stability and look to get back to winning ways as soon as possible. We’ve had a great record for the last 18 months but seen a blip in results over the last few weeks. We believe Lee is best placed to build on the strengths we undoubtedly have as a team and take us forward.

“We can also announce that Steve Ridley has decided to step down from his role as player-assistant-manager. Steve has been a great servant to this club for the last two years and we wish him well for the future. Keith Mackie will be staying as part of the management team and Lee will be looking to strengthen the team in the next few days."